Silicone nanofilaments grown on aircraft alloys for low ice adhesion

Abstract

Many novel icephobic coatings have been shown to exhibit low adhesion strength to ice grown at null or low velocity. Of these, few have been shown to also exhibit low adhesion strength to ice grown by impacting high velocity supercooled water droplets. Even fewer of these have been shown to exhibit low adhesion strength to ice grown over a range of environmental conditions. Those that have shown such behavior have been held back by their susceptibility to certain bands of UV-exposure. Here, icephobic coatings made from Silicone Nanofilament (SNF) networks grown on anodic metal oxide surfaces are presented. They show low ice adhesion strength for a range of impact icing conditions and exhibit good durability against the tested conditions. Additionally, their nano-porous structure provides enhanced lubricant retention when infused with oil. The described coatings are a promising candidate for supporting hybrid ice protection systems on aircraft, thereby reducing the energy needed for anti−/de-icing.